In the late 50s the P & O Group had decided to diversify into the then
lucrative Tanker Market. B.I. initially ordered four of their own
and, in addition, also managed and manned the "Busiris" on behalf of the Moss
Hutchinson Shipping Company. I wanted a change of scene from the Cadet Ships so
applied to join this venture. I was appointed to the first one
building at Scott's Yard, Greenock which was to be named the "Queda".
We sailed in February 1959 and I left her in December 1959 to go for my First
Mate's certificate.

"ELLENGA" (37,140 DWT) AT PORT SAID

After obtaining this I stood by the "Ellenga",
another new building Tanker in Swan Hunter's yard, Wallsend and sailed on her
until March 1961 initially as Third Officer, promoted to Second Officer after
the first voyage. After some leave I joined the "Ellora", sister
ship to "Ellenga" from June 1961 until September 1962 when I went for my
Master's ticket.

"ELLORA" IN THE ENGLISH CHANNEL

After Master's, I again went back to the "Ellenga" and sailed on her from
17th June 1963 until 21st July when she was
handed
over to Trident Tankers. I remained on the ship under the
Trident colours until I left in January 1964. Although I was offered
a Chief Officer's job there and then, I decided to return to the more refined
and civilised lifestyle of B.I. where I had to wait a further three years to
obtain the same rank.

"ELLORA" IN TRIDENT COLOURS

Photograph taken by me from "Ellenga" when she had
just
been passed over to Trident in 1963

"Ellenga" was on her first outward voyage in Trident
colours having been handed over in Falmouth on 1st August 1963. "Ellora"
is seen here laden and returning from the Gulf having been handed over to
Trident also in Falmouth a month earlier.

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